Fourteen players received the franchise tag in 2011. That set an NFL record, and my guess is that another record will be set this year.Let’s take a look at what players are likely to get the tag this year, and what players are on the bubble. You will not find a more complete franchise tag primer on the internet, possibly because no one is more bored than me without football in my life.

The no-brainers It would be stunning if these players don’t receive the franchise tag, barring a long-term contract beforehand. Tags can be applied on Monday, Feb. 20. The deadline for applying the tag is March 5, more than a week before free agency starts.

Each team can use one franchise tag. It allows teams to retain a potential unrestricted free agent with a one-year contract offer. The contract is for the average of the five largest prior year’s salaries at their position. For example, the running back tag this year is expected to be around $8 million — the average of the top five running backs last year.

1. Ray Rice, Ravens running back Guard Ben Grubbs is a nice player, but Rice fuels the entire Ravens offense. This is an easy call. Rice could remain unsigned for much of the offseason before reaching a long-term agreement.

2. Calais Campbell, Cardinals defensive end Campbell picked up Ray Horton’s 3-4 defense faster than his celebrated (and effective) teammate Darnell Dockett. Campbell is only 25-years-old and will be difficult to sign long term. His representation knows his value.

4. Jermichael Finley, Packers tight end Multiple reports in Green Bay indicate that quarterback Matt Flynn is not an option for the tag. Let’s trust them. Finley is a perfect tag candidate because he’s young, wildly talented, and the Packers probably aren’t quite sold yet that Finley deserves elite long-term money.5. Drew Brees, Saints quarterback Yeah, you might want to hold on to this guy. Brees has all sorts of leverage because the Saints would love to wrap up his deal before March 5 so they can use the tag on receiver Marques Colston or guard Carl Nicks.

Ultimately, it’s hard to rush a deal this big. If the Saints do sign Brees long-term, Nicks seems more likely to get a tag. Colston might be easier to sign long-term.

6. DeSean Jackson, Eagles wide receiver The Eagles reportedly will try to tag and trade Jackson. Big playmakers are hard to find, so there should be plenty of interest. Then again, Andy Reid may not be eager to deal his best deep threat before a “win-or-else” season.”

7. Fred Davis, Redskins tight endDavis is the most explosive player on Washington’s offense. He’s also one joint away from a year-long suspension. This is an easy choice; the Redskins need weapons.

8. Brent Grimes, Falcons cornerback Grimes is an above-average starting cornerback in his prime. It makes no sense to just let a guy like that walk away. (Unless you are the Bengals, circa 2011.)

Initially, I thought the team might seriously consider tagging linebacker Curtis Lofton. But Grimes is the far better choice and will be tough to get signed to a long extension.

Tough calls

The next 10 players aren’t slam dunks to be franchised, but they made my cut. My total number of 18 players will surely be reduced when some players on this list get contracts before March 5.

9. Anthony Spencer, Cowboys linebacker.

10. Matt Prater, Broncos kicker.

11. Marshawn Lynch, Seahawks running back.

12. Brandon Carr, Chiefs cornerback.

13. Wes Welker, Patriots wide receiver.

14. Sione Pouha, Jets nose tackle.

15. Dashon Goldson, 49ers safety.

16. Stevie Johnson, Bills wide receiver.

17. Josh Scobee, Jaguars kicker.

18. Cortland Finnegan, Titans cornerback.

The Near Misses

Remember that I’m choosing what I think will happen, not what should happen. The following players should at least be considered for a tag.

1. Arian Foster, Texans running back.

2. Mike Wallace, Steelers wide receiver.

3. D’Qwell Jackson, Browns linebacker.

4. Michael Bush, Raiders running back.

5. Dwayne Bowe, Chiefs wide receiver.

6. Robert Mathis, Colts defensive end.

7. Paul Soliai, Dolphins nose tackle.

8. Vincent Jackson, Chargers wide receiver.

Teams with no tag candidates

Here are the teams without any realistic tag candidates, just so you don’t think I forgot about you guys: Carolina, Cincinnati, Minnesota, New York Giants, St. Louis, and Tampa Bay.

I like a few of The Near Misses, hope the front office takes a look at these situations, then jump on the ones that don't get tagged.

1. Arian Foster, Texans running back Let’s also rule out a tag for Mario Williams because it would cost roughly $21 million. That would be crippling for a team so close to the cap. The offensive lineman tag is also too high even for a great center like Chris Myers.

Tagging Foster gives the Redskins a good shot at Myers. He's a upgrade and he has been in and knows the scheme.

7. Paul Soliai, Dolphins defensive tackle The Dolphins tagged Soliai last year. It’s too expensive to do it again, and the defensive scheme is changing.